Subrail

Subrail is the member that runs across the tops of, and is fastened to, the Balusters. Its use simplifies installation, while allowing the Handrail a more substantial look at nominal additional cost. Also, when Subrail is used, the actual Handrail can be installed after all other construction is complete, limiting possible damage during the construction phase.

An added bonus is the ease with which you can pre-paint Subrails in
an accent color, providing a pin-striping effect upon installation! This is, of course, much easier to accomplish with a separate
Subrail, as opposed to painting such a pin-stripe directly on a
portion of the Handrail. (Multiple color schemes are always easier
with pre-painting of separate components.)